Wreaths Across America Event at Pickens Chapel Cemetery
Southern Wesleyan University (SWU) participated in the Wreaths Across America event at Pickens Chapel Cemetery on Saturday, December 14, 2024.
Wreaths Across America is a national movement where we show a united front of gratitude and respect across the United States of America as we REMEMBER the Fallen, HONOR those who serve and TEACH our children the value of freedom. During this year’s event, over two million volunteers gathered at 4,909 memorial sites across the country to place three million wreaths.
The service at Pickens Chapel Cemetery was led by the SWU Warriors CARE Center Co-Directors, Donna Pittman and Chaplain Michael Shannon, Lieutenant Colonel USAF retired. Catharine and Isaiah Barker led the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem was led by Mrs. Sara Barker.
The ceremonial Wreath Presenters were as follows:
Richard Chiapperini, Sergeant US Army placed a remembrance wreath in memory of those who served and are serving in the United States Army.
Robert Pittman, Lance Corporal US Marine Corps placed a remembrance wreath in memory of those who served and are serving in the United States Marine Corps.
Dr. William Barker, Chaplain, Major US Air Force Reserves placed a remembrance wreath in memory of those who served and are serving in the United States Air Force.
Jamie Holcomb, Utilitiesman First Class, US Navy Seabee (retired) placed a remembrance wreath in memory of those who served and are serving in the United States Navy.
Michelle Fricks, Staff Sergeant, US Air Force placed a remembrance wreath in memory of those who served and are serving in the Space Force.
Walker Bousman, US Navy Electricians Mate 1st Class, Submarine Service placed a remembrance wreath in memory of those who served and are serving in the United States Coast Guard.
Staff Sergeant John Mabe, SC National Guard placed a remembrance wreath in memory of those who served and are serving in the United States Merchant Marines.
Matthew Ruopp, Sergeant 1st Class, US Army (retired) placed a remembrance wreath in honor of the 72,104 United States Servicemen from all branches of the service whose last known status was either Prisoners of War or Missing in Action. These individuals have never returned to their families and homes. We shall not forget you.
Afterwards, families of those interred at the cemetery and others placed wreaths throughout on the Veterans’ graves.
To sponsor wreaths for next year’s event, held on January 17, 2025, can be made at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. Donations to the Pickens Chapel Cemetery can be made at www.swu.edu/pickens-cemetery.
About Southern Wesleyan University
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused community that emphasizes inventive learning experiences. The university seeks to prepare its students as dedicated scholars and servant-leaders ready to impact the world. Visit www.swu.edu for more information on degree programs.
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